Influenza creeps into EUP

Wednesday

Dec 19, 2012 at 2:45 PM

Scott Brand

Local health officials have confirmed multiple cases of influenza in Chippewa County and are encouraging local residents to get flu shots.

“From what I’ve heard, so far the flu has been mainly Type-A,” said Dave Martin of the Chippewa County Health Department, adding the flu shot is designed to combat this strain. “It covers what we have been seeing out there right now.”

Fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue are standard flu symptoms reported with some individuals also suffering from vomiting and diarrhea, according to a health department news release.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has compiled a list of three actions to protect yourself and others.

The first step is to get a flu shot.

The second step calls for preventative actions — including covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, washing hands with soap and water, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, avoid close contact with sick people, and stay home if you have flu-like symptoms to avoid spreading the germs to others.

The third step, for those who experience flu-like symptoms, is to take antiviral drugs to combat the illness.

Martin said to date Chippewa County has not experienced any closures or cancellations due to the flu outbreak, but that does not hold true for the entire Upper Peninsula. Reports indicate that high school sporting activities in Munising, Rapid River and L’Anse have already been postponed due to excessive illnesses of participants.

Martin also indicated that to the south, the flu appears to have a stronghold in and around the Lansing area.